Tag: syracuse

This virtual forum will focus on how the Syracuse City School District, together with government and community partners, is supporting students and their families in accessing needed services ranging from temporary housing, food insecurity, joblessness, and poverty to mental health support, crisis management, and more. These partnerships focus on the whole family, the needs and desires of famalies, and are leading to practical, sustainable approaches that strengthen community support systems.

FOCUS Forums

Onondaga Nation Land Rights Act

September 26, 2025

Recording Now Available!

This Forum featured a presentation from Joe Heath, who delved into the ongoing legal efforts to reclaim ancestral lands. The presentation explored the historical context of the Onondaga Nation’s Land Rights Act, the legal challenges faced in U.S. courts, and the role of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.

FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc.

Building Resilience for Human Service Staff and Families

September 8, 2025

FOCUS and PEACE will hold the second of two free community convenings on November 17 (9:30 to 11:30 AM). Together, we will learn, discuss, and develop the resiliency that our community needs to meet basic needs.

The convening is open to all. Direct service staff, parents, and community members are especially asked to attend and to raise their voices.

The convening builds on recommendations from last year’s Whole Family Summit to Meet Basic Needs. It provides a space to learn from experts, generate solutions, and form practical partnerships among participants.

FOCUS Forums

Food Systems & Insecurity in Central New York

August 22, 2025

Recording & Slides Now Available!

This Forum featured a discussion about our local food systems. Panelists explored what food systems are, how they function, and the ways each of us is connected to them. Together, we learned why hunger solutions such as emergency food pantries are critical in the short term, yet cannot fully solve long-term food insecurity. Panelists shared lived experiences navigating hunger as well as insights from their work supporting community members. Panelists also discussed the ways SOFSA is addressing both immediate and long-term goals for building a more equitable food system. Panelists highlighted meaningful ways attendees can get involved and support this important work.

Wisdom Keeper

August 21, 2025

SOLD OUT!

Wisdom Keeper is FOCUS’ annual fundraiser. Each year, FOCUS celebrates the impact of a growing list of Wisdom Keepers.

These inspiring community members demonstrate exceptional leadership, continual caring, and understanding of the importance of vision for the future of Central New York!

FOCUS Forums

Energy for Growth in Central New York

August 7, 2025

Recording Now Available!

The August FOCUS Forum featured a discussion on how Central New York’s growth is being fueled by strategic investments in energy infrastructure and clean energy technologies.

Citizens Academy

Mayoral Mix & Mingle

July 7, 2025

FOCUS hosted a Mix & Mingle with the four candidates running for Syracuse City Mayor. This free, nonpartisan event offered an evening of meaningful conversation and community connection between residents and those seeking to lead our City.

FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc.

Announcing Our New Executive Director

July 2, 2025

FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc. is proud to announce Alicia Ernest as its new Executive Director. In her message, Alicia shares about the future of FOCUS and invites everyone to be an active participant in shaping civic engagement in our Central New York community. Together, we can create meaningful change and strengthen our connections to benefit all residents.

Tag: syracuse

Supporting Families through School & Community Partnerships

Onondaga Nation Land Rights Act

Building Resilience for Human Service Staff and Families

Food Systems & Insecurity in Central New York

Wisdom Keeper

Energy for Growth in Central New York

Mayoral Mix & Mingle

Announcing Our New Executive Director